10 TV Shows Like 'Gilmore Girls' to Watch When You're Missing Stars Hollow
These series are every bit as cute and quirky as your favorite show!
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So you've watched (and rewatched!) all seven seasons of Gilmore Girls and the 2016 limited miniseries A Year in the Life. Now what?! Not to worry, we've got you covered with this list of touching TV shows like Gilmore Girls. Brimming with heartwarming relationships, small-town charm, and captivating storytelling, these series are sure to delight fans longing to revisit the close-knit community of Stars Hollow.
There's something here for every Gilmore Girls enthusiast to enjoy, from heartfelt family dramas to charming comedies to quirky adventures in small-town settings. Each show on this list shares common threads with Gilmore Girls, and you can choose your next watch based on what you love the most about Gilmore Girls. If it's the exploration of complex relationships you're after, try the hit family drama Parenthood. If you loved watching Rory's pursuit of personal growth unfold, you'll enjoy the workplace dramedy Younger. And if you can't get enough of Rory and Lorelai's witty banter, then the hilarious Happy Endings is a must-watch! You can't go wrong with any of the shows in this collection, so grab a cup of coffee, settle into your favorite cozy spot, and let these shows transport you back to the warmth and magic of Stars Hollow.
Parenthood
This heartfelt drama follows the multi-generational Braverman family as they navigate life's challenges and joys together. Like Gilmore Girls, it explores complex family dynamics and tackles serious issues with warmth and humor.
Hart of Dixie
Set in the charming small town of Bluebell, Alabama, this series centers around Dr. Zoe Hart as she adjusts to life in the south and forms close bonds with the quirky residents. Fans of Gilmore Girls will appreciate its witty dialogue, quirky characters, and cozy small town vibes.
Brothers & Sisters
This drama follows the ups and downs of the Walker family, a close-knit clan living in Pasadena, California. Like Gilmore Girls, it delves into familial relationships, explores a wide range of emotions, and balances drama with humor. With its ensemble cast and deep character development, it offers a similar sense of warmth and authenticity.
Everwood
This heartfelt drama revolves around the lives of the residents of the small town of Everwood, Colorado. It follows the journey of Dr. Andy Brown, a widowed neurosurgeon who relocates his family to Everwood in search of a fresh start. Like Gilmore Girls, it explores themes of family, love, and personal growth against the backdrop of a tight-knit community.
Northern Exposure
This quirky dramedy set in the fictional small town of Cicely, Alaska, follows Dr. Joel Fleischman, a New York City physician who must practice medicine in the remote town for four years to repay his student loan. Fans of Gilmore Girls will appreciate this show's eccentric characters, offbeat humor, and exploration of small-town life.
Bunheads
This comedy-drama was created by Gilmore Girls showrunner Amy Sherman-Palladino, so you know it has to be good! The series follows Michelle Simms, a Las Vegas showgirl who impulsively marries and moves to the small coastal town of Paradise, California, where she becomes involved in her mother-in-law's dance studio. Like Gilmore Girls, it features fast-paced dialogue and quirky characters, and explores themes of friendship and self-discovery.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Here's another gem from Amy Sherman-Palladino! Set in 1950s Manhattan, the series follows Miriam "Midge" Maisel, a housewife who discovers a talent for stand-up comedy after her husband leaves her. Like Gilmore Girls, it features sharp, witty dialogue, strong female characters, and explores themes of independence and pursuing one's passions.
Felicity
Much like Gilmore Girls, this coming-of-age teen drama was a must-watch in the '90s. The series follows Felicity Porter, a young woman who follows her high school crush to college in New York City. Fans of Gilmore Girls will appreciate watching the experiences of a young woman navigating life's challenges while forging meaningful connections with friends and family.
Younger
This fun dramedy follows the story of Liza Miller, a 40-year-old woman who pretends to be in her 20s to reenter the workforce and pursue her dreams in the competitive world of publishing. Similar to Gilmore Girls, it explores themes of identity, friendship, and career aspirations with humor and heart.
Happy Endings
Looking for more hilarious fast-paced banter that you can barely keep up with? Then you have to check out Happy Endings! This quirky ensemble comedy revolves around a group of friends living in Chicago as they navigate the ups and downs of relationships, careers, and life in general.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
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